Nanisi Barrett D'Arnuk

Known mainly as a conductor and jazz pianist, Nanisi Barrett D’Arnuk holds the distinction of being the first open lesbian to conduct on the stage of D.A.R. Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C.

Nanisi has degrees in music composition from Boston University and studied for her doctorate at the University of Oklahoma. She has performed as timpanist with several regional orchestras. She was the Artistic Director of NYC’s Big Apple Corps and was the Vice President of Special Events for the Lesbian and Gay Band Association. She served as Artistic Director for LGBA’s appearance at Gay Games III in Vancouver, Canada, and Gay Games IV at New York’s Madison Square Garden.

When multiple sclerosis curtailed travel and performing, she returned to her second love: writing. Being of Aleut decent, she dreams of riding her Harley across Alaska and being five foot eleven.